HISTORICALLY, patronage politics, where resources are allocated to influence voters, has been a feature of Malaysian elections across various governments, which is not unique to PH.
For example, during the 2019 Tanjung Piai by-election, PH ministers announced millions in projects, a practice also seen under other coalitions like Barisan Nasional.
At that time, Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman announced allocating RM4 mil funding to the Tanjung Piai parliamentary constituency to upgrade its sports and recreational facilities.
While such actions can blur the line between governance and campaigning, concrete evidence of direct vote-buying under PH is limited compared to broader allegations of resource misuse.
Critics argue PH’s actions risk undermining fair elections, but defenders see them as fulfilling governmental duties.
Without broader data showing systemic intent, calling vote buying a “norm” under PH may overstate the issue.
Parti Sosialis Malaysia (PSM) criticised Perak deputy state assembly speaker Jenny Choy for defending Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming against accusations of abusing power during the Ayer Kuning by-election campaign.
PSM’s candidate, Bawani KS, questioned the timing of Nga’s announcement of a RM6.13 mil allocation for 33 projects in Tapah, which includes Ayer Kuning, suggesting it was strategically made to influence voters.
Electoral watchdog Bersih echoed concerns, labeling the move as an unfair use of government resources that undermines fair elections and creates perceptions of vote-buying.
“Why couldn’t the announcement be made earlier or later? What’s the purpose of (making the announcement) during an election?” said Bawani KS, adding that it was blatantly giving bribes to the people.
Electoral watchdog Bersih criticised Nga’s actions in Tapah, which includes Ayer Kuning, as an unfair use of government resources, citing their 2023 “3C” guidelines that prohibit campaigning or conditions during official functions.
Parti Putra’s Shahrulutfi Sharif also condemned Nga, calling for an MACC investigation into alleged corruption.
The Ayer Kuning by-election, triggered by the incumbent’s death, features candidates from BN, PN, and PSM, with nominations on April 13, 2025, and polling on April 26. —Apr 13, 2025
Main image: Reuters
